Leopard wrasse verification please

[jbvdhp]

Hey RC, will someone confirm or deny if this is a female m. Ornatus please? Thanks!

 

[eatbreakfast]

It's a M. ornatus, either female or initial phase male.

 

[jbvdhp]

It's a M. ornatus, either female or initial phase male.

How can I tell if it's an initial phase male?

 

[eatbreakfast]

The markings on it's face have more of a 'spotting' appearance. As it matures those spots begin to connect creating more of a striated pattern. Later on they also get a deeper body. The one in the pic no longer has a spotted face, but it's body is not as deep as a terminal phase male.

Of all the leopards, ornatus is among the most difficult to identify it's exact stage.

 

[MIKE NY]

I have a terminal phase male. I have him about 4-5 years now and grown from alittle 1.5" juvi. He is big now about 5-6" and is a bit of a bully not allowing any of my other Leopards to change and they are large also all in the 4-5" range. My Blue Star started and has been in transitional phase for about a year now. As mentioned it will get deeper and darker. Also the first dorsal spike will be a more pronounced red. I'll try and get a pic....

 

[jbvdhp]

The markings on it's face have more of a 'spotting' appearance. As it matures those spots begin to connect creating more of a striated pattern. Later on they also get a deeper body. The one in the pic no longer has a spotted face, but it's body is not as deep as a terminal phase male.

Of all the leopards, ornatus is among the most difficult to identify it's exact stage.

I agree. I've been looking up pics for reference and it's so difficult! Looks like I have to pass on her/him as I already have a large male like Mike does. He's very docile it seems but I don't want that chance.

 

[MIKE NY]

much prettier in person.....

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[ca1ore]

Interesting. My ornate looks exactly like the first post ... and I always assumed it was a she. Maybe I have a shehe instead.

 

[jbvdhp]

Interesting. My ornate looks exactly like the first post ... and I always assumed it was a she. Maybe I have a shehe instead.

LOL Simon!!!
Here's my male:

 

[MIKE NY]

Good move I wouldn't take a chance with another one either unless they were introduced together. A couple of guys in my club have them also with the same results alittle territorial with other Leopards and none have taken the chance with a second Ornate.